Public bathhouses existed in ancient times, and with the most diverse purposes. Religious, spiritual, or even sports related, they were perceived as a way of purifying body and soul. Currently, public baths have one main purpose: hygiene. Bathing is a basic human need and of great importance to our personal and social well-being. In the Portuguese capital there are 18 public bathhouses, but not all of them are working. Some exceed 1500 hot baths per month. Most of their users are men who are homeless, unemployed, living in poverty and poor social conditions. They come and go one, two or three times a week. Some people go in and out without saying a single word, others speak anonymously while others come to socialize, talk and take a shower.